The Southeast Michigan Chamber of Commerce kicked off 2025 with its highest-attended luncheon yet at Andiamo in Warren, drawing an enthusiastic crowd eager to hear from special guest Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan. Members had the rare opportunity to personally meet the mayor, making for an especially engaging and memorable event. The Chamber also unveiled its 2025 event calendar, announcing that luncheons will now be held bi-monthly to allow for expanded small-group networking and five expert panel events on finance, HR/legal, marketing, technology, and essential business professionals. The Chamber also introduced the new Event Ambassador program, giving members a unique way to increase visibility and engagement through Chamber representation.

 

A key highlight of the afternoon was the Chamber’s commitment to nonprofit giving, with video presentations preceding the disbursement of funds to several organizations. The Chamber proudly announced that $23,500 was raised for MCREST’s Men’s Shelter capital campaign, $5,000 was donated to Vets Returning Home by DANA Corp., and $10,000 was contributed to the Macomb County Winter Shelter at WAVE Project from MCREST. These donations reflect SMCC’s dedication to community support and making a lasting impact in Southeast Michigan.

 

Mayor Duggan’s keynote speech was a major draw, attracting members eager to hear about Detroit’s resurgence and economic transformation. He shared how his administration’s aggressive blight reduction efforts and highly successful online property auction have revitalized neighborhoods, turning abandoned homes into valued real estate. The initial demand was so overwhelming that the website crashed at launch, highlighting the intense public interest in Detroit’s comeback. Duggan’s insights into urban development and economic revitalization left attendees inspired by the city’s continued growth and progress.

 

The luncheon concluded with a warm welcome to new members, whose logos were prominently displayed in the event slideshow. Attendees also received reminders about upcoming Chamber events, including new charity cigar networking events and exclusive panel discussions, ensuring that 2025 will be a year filled with valuable connections, business growth, and community engagement.